2023/24 Undergraduate Module Catalogue

BIOC1302 Introductory Biochemistry: Practical Skills

20 Credits Class Size: 110

Module manager: Dr Juan Fontana
Email: J.Fontana@leeds.ac.uk

Taught: Semesters 1 & 2 (Sep to Jun) View Timetable

Year running 2023/24

Pre-requisite qualifications

Normal U/G entry requirements

Co-requisites

BIOC1301 Introductory Integrated Biochemistry: the Molecules and Proc
BIOC1303 Introductory Biochemistry: Problem Solving and Data Handling

Mutually Exclusive

BIOL1112 The Molecules of Life

This module is not approved as a discovery module

Objectives

To provide training in data collection, and the experimental techniques of modern biochemistry.

Learning outcomes

At the end of the module students will be able to:
1. Use a range of biochemical laboratory equipment and practical techniques;
2. Design simple controlled experiments and record, analyse and interpret experimental data.

Skills outcomes

Managing Knowledge - Data evaluation / problem solving.
Technical Competence - Laboratory techniques; Experimental design; Analysing data
Managing Self - Planning; Time management.
Managing Interrelationships - Teamwork; Decision taking; Learning from others; Sharing; Receiving critique.
Presentation Skills - Lab reports; written answers.

Syllabus

Students will undertake a range of experiments using modern biochemical techniques including spectrophotometry, electrophoresis, chromatography, PCR & fluorimetry.

Through these experiments they will further develop their technical competence, learn to analyse and interpret different types of data, and record and present these appropriately. There will also be opportunities to develop skills in experimental design, and to develop an understanding of safe laboratory practice.

Teaching Methods

Delivery type Number Length hours Student hours
Practical 20 6 120
Private study hours 80
Total Contact hours 120
Total hours (100hr per 10 credits) 200

Private study

- Preparation for practical sessions and report writing
- Revision for MCQs.

Opportunities for Formative Feedback

Student progress will be monitored through weekly checking of laboratory books/proformas, and supervision by demonstrators during laboratory sessions.

Methods of Assessment

Coursework
Assessment type Notes % of formal assessment
In-course Assessment Completion of lab book 5
In-course Assessment Preparation of practicals via online quizzes 5
In-course MCQ MCQ S1 10
In-course MCQ MCQ S2 20
Practical Report 3 x summative lab book reports (20% each), 1 formative lab book report 60
Total percentage (Assessment Coursework) 100

Owing to the continuous and practical nature of assessments, no resit will be available in August for students who fail the module; students will be required to repeat the module, and all assessed coursework, as an internal candidate.

Reading List

The reading list is available from the Library website

Last updated: 28/04/2023

Errors, omissions, failed links etc should be notified to the Catalogue Team